Thursday, December 15, 2011 Capital Weekly Page 1 Capital

FromWeekly the Heart of the Nation to the Soul of the People

No. 015 Thursday, December 15, 2011 Price: $1.00 Let There Be Lights! Christmas Comes to the Capital City

A family poses in front of Area Rep. Hon. John Saldivar and Mayor Simeon Lopez turning on the switch the Christmas Tree to light the Christmas Tree that will warm the hearts of Belmopan residents thoughout the season esidents came Council and aspiring coun- Ministry of Sports. A beau- tured artist in Frankie Re- out by the hun- cilors on the UDP ticket for tiful rendition of the na- neau’s Celebration Album. dreds. In fact, municipal elections 2012. tional anthem was sung by The gathering was the unofficialR count was well MC for the evening Radiance Thompson, a lo- lead in prayer by Pastor over a thousand. The occa- was Ismael ‘Miley’ Garcia, cal singer made famous by Scott Stirm of Jubilee Min- sion was the third Christmas National Coordinator in the her participation as a fea- istries. Deputy Mayor Amil- Tree Lighting ceremony, this car Umana did the welcome. one kicking off the Christ- There were speeches by May- mas celebrations for 2011 or Simeon Lopez and Area in the Nation’s Capital. It Representative Hon. John took place last Saturday De- Saldivar who both encour- cember 10, 2011 at the Sir aged residents to participate George Brown Field start- in the activities planned for ing at 6:30 in the evening. the season and work together On hand for the event to ensure a merry and blessed were Belmopan Area Repre- Christmas for all. The thank sentative Hon. John Saldivar, you was done by Councilor Mayor Simeon Lopez, mem- and former Deputy May- bers of the Belmopan City Students of El Shaddai Primary School entertained in song Continued on Page 2 Page 2 Capital Weekly Thursday, December 15, 2011 Let There Be Lights! Editorial Belizean Survival- Top Quality

This past weekend I was visited by a friend who had just delivered a truck load of oranges to the factory. He was working for one of the big citrus farmers in the . The trucker was upset because over 200 of the 800 boxes of oranges delivered were rejected. Truckers get paid by the amount of accepted fruit delivered. Therefore, this trucker was only being paid for some 600 boxes transported. The trucker was upset with his employer, Students of Garden City Primary School doing their thing not the factory. He said he noticed Continued from Page 1 planned and executed in some of the oranges were green. The or Victor Perdomo, under conjunction with the Of- whose portfolio the event fice of Area Representa- big citrus farmer thought he could get was organized, with special tive Hon. John Saldivar, he away with delivering inferior fruits. events coordinator Tricia Pe- and his team along Mayor layo spearheading the effort. Lopez and his team set- At present, the factory is very Entertainment was ting a good example of uni- committed to accepting only the provided by El Shaddai Pri- ty and cooperation for the mary School. There were residents of the Capital City. best quality fruit. Even though some beautiful Christmas songs by The grounds on which farmers are upset, this is the only the Belchoral Society. There the Christmas Tree stands will way can compete in the global were also performances by be the venue for various events Garden City Primary School during the Yuletide Season, citrus market; with the best quality. and Kushlin Ha Government including Children’s parties. A country must learn to adapt to School. Miss Magdalene Gibson performed a ballet the circumstances. Our population dance, and there was a pres- CapitalFrom the Heart Weekly of the Nation is small. Labour is a problem. We entation by the Police Drama Group. The Youth Legacy To the Soul of the People do not have quantity in products. Church Group of Ontario Countries like Mexico and Brazil, Village provided live music. Published By: Roots & Rhythm Ltd. can always out-supply Belize. The event was alcohol free, being a real family oc- 15 Gibnut Street Belmopan Our survival must always be based casion. Free sodas were pro- vided by Bowen and Bowen on the quality of our products and Chairman: Limited, who have always Delroy Cuthkelvin services. We must produce the best supported the event, having oranges, the best sugar, the best chocolate, provided the Christmas Tree Editor: for the two previous years’ Wilbourne Cuthkelvin the best bananas, the best shrimp,... event. This year, the Belmo- When the name Belize is mentioned pan City Council acquired Compositor: in the global economy, it will never be its own Christmas Tree, and William Cuthkelvin prizes given out at the event because of the size of our production. were donated by the coun- Telephone: We can ensure, however, that Belize cilors and staff at City Hall 802-1284 who also did the decora- survives because of one word: QUALITY. tion of the Christmas Tree Email: and other logistical work capitalweekly_bze@ Send comments to [email protected] to make the event possible. yahoo.com The entire event was Thursday, December 15, 2011 Capital Weekly Page 3 Major Works in the Capital Upgrading Infrastructure- Creating Jobs to improve in- frastructure in the City, while also providing employment. As we all know by now, Prime Minister Bar- row has been determined and unwavering in his com- mitment to create employ- ment everywhere, despite fi- nancial limitations imposed by global economic condi- tions and heavy demands on our local resources as a result of the wasteful spend- ing by the last administra- tion that left us an onerous Constitution Drive with newly installed features to organize the traffic debt burden in the billions.

f you move around Belmopan City these days, you will noticeI a flurry of activities taking place simultaneously, all intended to upgrade the Capital City’s infrastruc- ture, improve its aesthet- ics and make life easier and safer for those who live here, work here or visit for busi- ness and other purposes. First of all, there is ma- jor upgrading and repairing of streets, drain restoration, walkway repairs and bushing, all part of a project utilizing the City Council’s own funds as well as special funds com- One of the intersections on Constitution Drive that has become very busy of late mitted by Prime Minister In the Capital City, the Prime Minister’s initiative, as we noted, has provided much needed resources to supple- ment the City Council’s own funds for upgrading and re- pairing of the City’s infra- structure. It has also, at the same time, created employ- ment for over 100 persons, many of them young people, who represent a serious chal- lenge for the entire nation, particularly where crime and violence is concerned. The Prime Minister’s Another busy intersection connecting the Ministry of Works, the Ministry of Lands and the Western Regional Hospital in Belmopan Continued on Page 8 Page 4 Capital Weekly Thursday, December 15, 2011 Pre-school Project Launched in Santiago Juan Layout of San Ignacio

Taking part in the ground-breaking: SIF’s Daniel Cano, Hon. Salvador Fernandez and Hon.

A project for the con- construction of a 2,000 sq feet able to accommodate 50 stu- falls in line with Millennium struction of the Santiago Juan concrete building with zinc dents in the morning and 50 Development Goal No. 2, which Pre-school building was of- roof, reinforced concrete floor, in the afternoon. A ramp aims to achieve Universal Pri- ficially launched Monday De- galvanized aluminum louvered will be built to accommo- mary Education and Target 5 cember 12, 2011 during a windows with burglar bars and date special needs children. which aims to ensure that by ground breaking ceremony solid timber doors. The build- The building and playing 2005, children everywhere will in the Santiago Juan Layout ing will have one class room area will be properly fenced. able to complete a full course of Area of San Ignacio Town. and will include a kitchenette Pre-school education primary schooling up to Stand- The project is being im- and a boys and girls bathroom sets the foundation for the life ard 6. A proper pre-school ed- plemented by the Social In- facility. Landscaping, installa- long process of learning by ucation will enable entry into vestment Fund at an approxi- tion of playground equipment equipping children with the primary school making possi- mate cost of $211,895.00 and a supply of toys and electronic basic literacy and social skills. ble the fulfillment of this goal. financed by the Government of equipment such as a DVD Play- Early childhood education is Santiago Juan Layout is Belize through a loan from the er, television and radio will be crucial for human develop- located in the suburbs to the Caribbean Development Bank. included as part of the project. ment and poverty reduction. west of San Ignacio Town, Cayo The project entails the The pre-school will be The pre-school project Continued on Page 5

Hon. Erwin Contreras, Min of Economic Development Hon. Salvador Fernandez, Area Rep for Thursday, December 15, 2011 Capital Weekly Page 5 Pre-school Project Launched in Santiago Juan Layout of San Ignacio

John August, Mayor of San Ignacio Daniel Cano, Social Investment Fund

the full support of the Minis- Catholic school on the Bul- Consumer Protection. Other Continued from Page 4 try of Education and the Gov- let Tree Road that is near to speakers included Hon. Sal- District. This growing suburb ernment of Belize, which pro- the community and other pri- vador Fernandez, Area Rep- lies west of the Bullet Tree Road vided the land for the project. mary schools in San Ignacio resentative for Cayo North, and is expanding north towards The facility will facilitate also provide access to primary Representatives of the Social Bullet Tree Village and west to- all the learning areas required education for the children of Investment Fund, the Ministry wards the Guatemalan border. for a pre-school by the Min- Santiago Juan Layout Area. of Education and the Santiago With a growing popula- istry of Education, which in- The guest speaker at Juan Pre-school Management. tion, the need for a pre-school clude: Language, Music, Crea- the project launching was (Information provided in the Santiago Juan Layout tive Art, Sand, Books, Dramatic Hon. Erwin Contreras, Min- by Mike Hernandez Jr. (Sr J.P.) has become a priority for par- Play and Science/Discovery. ister of Economic Develop- Director of Public Relations of ents in the area. The project has There is one Roman ment, Commerce, Industry and the Social Investment Fund) Page 6 Capital Weekly Thursday, December 15, 2011 Faith Lift The Church’s role in bringing

By Zelda Hill Peace to the Home a British politician and (male or female). The tion. By being physically f Belize sub- evangelical Christian, Church teaches courtesy domineering they try scribed to was one of the leading and respect for the oppo- to reassure themselves the fallacy English abolitionists in site sex and promotes and that they are strong and that “whatI goes on be- the movement to abolish supplies healthy family in control. On numer- hind closed doors is not the slave trade. Martin entertainment and emo- ous occasions, Christian my business,” then we Luther King, Jr, who is tional support for those men have befriended would not have joined best known for the ad- affected through pastoral abusers, counselled, ad- with other countries in vancement of civil rights and professional coun- vised and become a role their sixteen days of ac- in the United States and selling. Adults are taught model to them in or- tivism to end gender around the world, was a how to communicate, der to help them correct based violence, specifi- Baptist Minister. Gener- how to vent anger and their ways and restore cally violence towards ally, people who genu- frustration positively peace in their homes. women [girls included]. inely had a salvation ex- and how to handle con- The power of God Most abuses to- perience, attend church flict and disagreements, through the Church wards women occur be- regularly and strive to especially in marriage proves itself when there hind closed doors and live according to Biblical enrichment workshops is healing of someone in occasionally the evi- standards have peaceful and marriage counsel- the society, be it abuser, dence of such is seen in homes and their children ling sessions. Christians victim or both. There public places. The Cen- receive multiple ben- reach out to victims in are numerous ways in tre for Women’s Global efits. This fact does not their neighbourhoods, which the Church can Leadership theme for mean that church-going support families and lo- become more visible these activities, “From people are not abusers cal shelters through do- and active in the soci- peace in the home to and victims but obvi- nation of money, food, ety in an effort to bring peace in the World…” ously there is some ben- clothing, medicine or an end to such violence. reflects the heart of the efit to the family from service and have pro- Looking the other way Church’s mission in her the Church’s messages, vided shelters, even or not caring about what calling to society, begin- programs and activities. their homes, to battered goes on behind closed ning with the individual. As a preventative wives and their families. doors should never be Although the ef- measure, the Church has The Church also the Christian’s attitude. forts of other groups been warning against ac- understands that sin is In times like these may be more obvious, tivities, vices and enter- the root cause of such when the God-ordained the Church has been tainment that promote violence and in the case institution of family is ministering to the fam- violence. Substance of the abuser, he also challenged, let’s seize ily unit: victim, children abuse, addictions, por- needs healing. Many every opportunity to and abuser, since she nography, violent mov- abusers were raised in save society’s fundamen- realizes the importance ies and video games, abusive homes and have tal building block from of family and acknowl- sex-loaded movies and witnessed abuse. They the attack of the enemy. edges that each person shows and abuse itself all are unable to commu- In our yearning for has the capacity to be contribute to violence in nicate effectively, to ex- peace in the home and healed and restored. the home which extends press anxiety or fear and peace in the world we While others may to the streets, schools their abusive tenden- must remember that want the Church’s role and the workplace. As cies are not usually an such peace can be real- to be just restorative, as an agent of socialization, expression of anger to- ized when we make Je- the gatekeeper of mo- the Church’s programs ward their partner but sus Christ, the Prince rality in the society, the and activities teach chil- more likely the ventila- of Peace, dwell in our church has been known dren and youth that it is tion of their own feelings hearts and in our homes to foster social change. wrong to hit and to bully of inadequacy and pent in this Season and William Wilberforce, others that are weaker up anger and frustra- throughout the year. Thursday, December 15, 2011 Capital Weekly Page 7 MeetSeasons Santino Greetings Castillo From Department of Transport THERE’S A THIN LINE BETWEEN LIFE AND DEATH.

TRAFFIC SAFETY TIPS FOR DRIVERS

1. Check your motor vehicle to ensure that everything is in good working condition. Example- brakes, all lights, horn, wipers, tires, spare-tire, tire tools, oil, water, brake fluid & dash board gauges. 2. Ensure that your driver’s license is valid and that your vehicle is licensed and insured. 3. Wear your seat belts at all times when on the highways. (It is an offence for drivers and front seat passengers not to wear seat belts on the high ways). 4. Don’t carry passengers in the back of open pickup trucks. (Vehicle only insured to carry amount of passengers as stipulated on certificate of registration/title). 5. Don’t drive if you are consuming Alcoholic beverages or taking medication (drugs). Have designated driver (alcohol and drugs affect your vision and judgement). 6. Avoid making calls on cell phone when driving, it is best to pull off to the right to make calls or to answer your cell phone, don’t text whiles driving. 7. Wear your helmet at all times when operating or being carried as a passenger on a motor cycle. 8. Only overtake if you have a clear view of the road ahead, never overtake around blind curves or when driving over a hill. 9.Drive within the speed limit at all times. 10. Obey all traffic law and signs.

THINK! DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE Page 8 Capital Weekly Thursday, December 15, 2011 Major Works in the Capital Upgrading Infrastructure- Creating Jobs Continued from Page 3 philosophy, if we can call it that, is that if our young peo- ple are gainfully employed, then a life of crime and vio- lence will be much less at- tractive to them; and that, by itself, would go a long way in curbing the crime situa- tion. If we can call it that, we say, as we are sure the Prime Minister would contend, and rightly so, that this is no pro- found philosophy, but basic logic and common sense. Whatever the case, the facts seem to be bearing out the practical wisdom in the philosophy or policy as, even in the Old Capital, Be- Streets being repaired in the Capital City lize City—which, in recent times, had assumed more of a status as ‘murder capital’— homicides and other violent crimes have seen an encour- aging reduction over the past few months, since the imple- mentation of a gang-truce PUBLIC NOTICE and the government’s accom- panying pledge and follow- In accordance with Section 6 of the Electricity (Tariffs, Fees and Charges) Byelaws, S.I. 145 through in providing employ- of 2005 as amended by S.I. 116 of 2009, the Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) made a ment for the youths involved. submission to the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) on December 1, 2011, for a Full Tariff But, coming back to Review Proceeding (FTRP). the current capital city, there is also, as we noted, the mark- Members of the public may participate in the FTRP by submitting written comments on BEL’s ing of streets and installation submission to the PUC by January 3, 2012, at [email protected] or at the PUC office at 41 Gabourel of other features to organize Lane in Belize City. the flow of traffic and make life easier and safer for all. Members of the public may also make comments at a Public Hearing to be held on Wednesday, That particular project is be- December 21, 2011, at 7:00pm at the Princess Hotel on Newtown Barracks in Belize City. BEL ing funded by the Social In- shall participate in the Public Hearing. vestment Fund (SIF), being executed in conjunction and Members of the public will be allotted a maximum of five minutes at the Public Hearing in coordination with the City which to present comments and information, as time permits. Council’s infrastructure pro- Persons wishing to make comments at the Public Hearing are advised to contact the PUC by ject being carried out, as we 5:00pm on Tuesday, December 20, 2011, to ensure participation. noted, with its own funds and special monies commit- Where any person submits comments or information purported to be factual, such comments or ted by the Prime Minister. information shall be accompanied by a sworn affidavit. We must also add that the Area Representative for Three copies of all applications, reports, documents, comments or information provided by Belmopan, Hon. John Saldi- members of the public shall be filed at the PUC’s office and a copy shall be provided to the var, has been fully engaged, licensee at his principal office of business on the same day. helping to lobby for funds at the Cabinet level, assisting BEL’s submission is available for viewing at the offices of BEL and on the Company’s website in identifying specific areas at www.bel.com.bz as well as at the PUC office and on our website at www.puc.bz. Continued on Page 16 Thursday, December 15, 2011 Capital Weekly Page 9 From the Desk of the Chairman The Salt and Its Savour

is quite the opposite. the assembly of thieves Delroy Cuthkelvin UDP once the oppor- Chairman, Editorial Board tunity presents itself. It is that the UDP has in 2005 and 2007. Let From all indica- been on such a roll po- us not forget those who tions, it’s not going to litically over the past pounded the pave- be so easy for them eight years since the ment in 2006 and 2008 h e n this time around, part- Cayo South by-elec- proclaiming the gospel t h i s ly because the PUP tion of 2003, and the of UDP redemption; ad- as an administration PUP has been in such those who have since ministrationW took of- done so time and time had become so hor- a pathetic state of de- fice almost four years rible by 2008, and be- cline, it’s quite easy on again, regardless of ago, it enjoyed the cause the lingering this side for arrogance the personal reward, greatest goodwill any taste of their misdeeds and complacency to or lack thereof. Let us administration has remains so bitter, that start setting in. And not forget those who had in recent memory; even they seem unable we are ever mindful of sounded the trum- and, by all accounts, to stomach each other what, according to the pet as we went to bat- it has retained a good long enough to conva- Good Book, pride goe- tle for Belize; those deal of that goodwill lesce and coalesce in th before. (“Pride goeth who rallied the troops; from most sectors and any effective manner. before destruction, and those who sacrificed from the public at large. It’s also due in a haughty spirit before their own bodies and This is attribut- part, though, to the a fall.” Proverbs 16:8) their own lives for the ed, in large measure, fact that the UDP is If we are to avert future of the nation. to the fact that the last better organized as a the kind of catastroph- Let us not forget the administration went party today than it ever ic fall that seems to overwhelming major- down as the worst was. Much of the credit inevitably follow pro- ity of Belizeans who government ever, and for that must go to the longed political suc- gave us that approv- that it is apparent the Hon. Dean Barrow. In cess, we would do ing nod as they pa- party and the play- 1998, he inherited a well to not forget, for raded to and from the ers that formed that devastated, demoral- a minute, the source polls on Election Day. administration have ized and dysfunctional of that success. So cli- Above all, let us learnt virtually noth- party. Layer by layer, he chéd it is, we often get not forget why all of us ing during their four built and transformed tired of hearing it. But did what we did. It’s all years wandering in it into a machine that there’s a reason it has inextricably interwo- the wilderness of po- has now become the become clichéd, and ven, for if we lose touch litical rejection. They envy of those on the the reason is that it’s with the people, we lose seem to be counting other side who once true. It is the fact that sight of the cause; and entirely on the kind of bragged about their ‘in- power is derived exclu- once we’ve lost sight of political fallout with vincible Blue Machine’. sively from the people the cause, then there’s the electorate that has Lest you begin to and can be maintained no ‘people’ in it any- traditionally plagued think we are starting to only through direct more, and the whole the UDP when it is in worship ourselves—as and deliberate con- exercise becomes office. All they need Evan X Hyde accurate- tact with, and involve- fruitless and failing. to do, they seem to ly noted of the PUP be- ment of the people. If the salt has think, is to stalk and fore its great fall—let Let us not forget lost its savour, where- lie in wait, ready to us hasten to assert that those who took to the with shall it be salt- pounce upon the the thesis of our essay streets and stormed ed? (Matthew 5:13) Page 10 Capital Weekly Thursday, December 15, 2011 Sports Update -With Ismael “Miley” Garcia

Creek districts this past works at the Stadium, ize football tournaments weekend giving impe- have now engaged their under the FFB umbrella, tus to this program. It is sub contractors, FT Wil- the incumbent Chair- hoped that when the bas- liams and Ayuso’s Plumb- man, Mr Kent Gabourel, ketball programs are fully ing, in an effort to ensure lost to the slate of Mr Earl in place countrywide we that all the works are car- “Trappy” Trapp. We say will see the farm system ried out at professional thank you to Mr Kent that will have our youth standards. Under the Gabourel for his service ready for sports scholar- watchful eye of Anthony and we are sure he will ships tryouts with inter- Thurton and Associates, be staying close to foot- national institutions by Government is ensur- ball for a very long time. age sixteen to seventeen. ing that we get value for This weekend elec- We just witnessed the money. We will keep you tions are scheduled for IIIsmael “Miley” Garcia National Sports Coordinator crowning of Central Di- updated on our progress. Saturday in the Stann Ministry of Sports vision Basketball Cham- In football news, Creek District and on pions, Sadie Vernon High the Football Federation Sunday for the Belize School this week as they of Belize (FFB) contin- and Corozal Districts. he year triumphed over St John’s ues the process of holding Interestingly, the chal- is rapidly College. There are al- elections for it s members lengers in Corozal have winding ready a few prospects countrywide. Last Thurs- not received a response downT but the sports cal- from this division that are day, December 8, elec- from the Electoral Ap- endar remains busy right being closely viewed by tions were held for the peals Commission, and down to the wire. We note Coach Tarr as prospects . Incum- neither have the four with satisfaction that the for scholarship opportu- bent Cecil “Andy” Til- members of the Belize Belize Volleyball Associa- nities in College Basket- lett and his slate won this and Stann Creek Distircts tion held a successful An- ball abroad. This week- election, except for the who were turned down nual General Meeting at end all the basketball post of Vice Chairman. by the Electoral Commis- which there was an elec- action will be in San Pe- This position was won by sion. Readers will recall tion for members of their dro for the High Schools challenger Allen Genus. that the slate for Belmo- National Executive. The National Competition We are gratified that fi- pan was turned down by elections were held under Meanwhile the nally Toledo, like so many the Electoral and Elec- a very open and transpar- works have picked up at other football districts, toral Appeals Commis- ent process and the Min- the Marion Jones Sport- has an ELECTED Execu- sion. The members of the istry of Sports and the ing Complex as we move tive and we trust that this Electoral Appeals Com- Honorable John Saldivar towards having an in- new Executive will now mission of the FFB are congratulate those per- ternational class facility begin to organize football Mr. David Cruz, Mrs An- sons who were elected to in place. Modern Con- in Toledo. Meanwhile, in drea Mckoy and Honor- office. We also thank and struk and Urbanizadora the , where able Marcel Cardona. The congratulate those who Continental, which is the FFB representative Football Family holds its were on the past Executive the company that was was one of the few coun- breath and we continue to for their hard work and awarded Phase 4 of the trywide to truly organ- monitor at the Ministry. dedication in bringing volleyball to the level of popularity it now enjoys. The Basketball cal- Read Capital Weekly Online endar remains busy also with mini basket picking in Living Colours at: up steam countrywide. Coach Bernie Tarr was belizenews.com/Capital Weekly in Toledo and the Stann Thursday, December 15, 2011 Capital Weekly Page 11 Mexico and Belize sign Educational and Cultural Cooperation Programme 2010-2013

The Document being signed by Mexican Ambassador, Mario Velázquez and Belize Minister of Education, Patrick Faber Belmopan, Belize, 14 De- man resources training, and the cember 2011.- Mexico and Belize education of Spanish and English. signed today the Educational and The Programme of Educa- Cultural Cooperation Programme tional Cooperation and Cultural 2010-2013. This new program 2010-2013 includes several sub- reinforces the cooperation be- jects such as an increasing num- tween both countries on areas ber of scholarships for Belizeans such as education, culture, youth to study in Mexico, more training and sport, as well as its financing. for teachers and technical staff in Mexican Ambassa- computing, educational and re- dor, Mario Velázquez and Be- search cooperation between uni- lize Minister of Education, versities, support to the Bachelor’s Patrick Faber signed the docu- Degree in Spanish at the Univer- Notice is hereby given that ment this morning at the Insti- sity of Belize (UB), training for tute of Mexico in Belize City. Spanish teachers, as well as sup- Ivanhoe Mcpherson is applying for a The Program 2010-2013 is port to technological projects. one of the outcomes of the 6th Bi The Programme also Restaurant and Bar Liquor License to national Commission and of the provides bases for the collabo- be operated at I & J Restaurant and Bar, 8th Meeting of the Joint commit- ration in archaeology, conser- tee of Educational and Cultural vation and restoration of the Valley Community, Stann Creek Cooperation, held simultaneous- historical and cultural heritage, ly in Chetumal, Mexico, on the participation in international District for the Year 2012, under 29th and 30th September, 2010. festivals, training and cultural Throughout the years, management, collaboration be- the Intoxicating Liquor License this agreement has been a use- tween archives and libraries, as ful tool between both countries, well as encouraging contacts be- Ordinance, Revised Edition, 1980. particularly in education, hu- tween media and film institutions. Page 12 Capital Weekly Thursday, December 15, 2011 Bringing in Christmas with a Bang: Western Regional Championship

menia Scorpions, Pen- arol, Touch of Class, Alianze Duck Run One and Billy White Eagles. As the teams com- peted every Sunday they knew that what was at stake was the One Thou- sand Dollars cash prize along with a trophy and a set of jerseys that was do- nated by the Cayo South Area Representative Hon. Champions (First Place), Penarol of San Ignacio (Trophy and $1,000 Cash) Ramon Witz, who assured Aaron Swift that he would commit to the next tour- had something to look nament was n the line. forward to when it comes With that in mind, to the game of football. the teams also knew that The twenty teams they had to put them- that started the compe- selves in the best position tition were divided into to win the tournament. As two groups. In group A the twenty teams fought was Western Dairies, Lit- hard, eight of the twenty tle Texas, Tambos FC, made it to the Quarter Fi- Gaza Boys, Buena Vis- nals, and the eight, four ta, World FC, Hopkins, went on to the next round, Franks Eddy, BNE Oil- the Semi Finals. The four ers and Backstreet Boys. teams were Cotton Tree, Group B was made Penarol, Western Dair- up of Blackman Eddy, ies and Los Tambos. Astros United, Olympus So the stage was Hon. Witz presents trophy and jersey to Penarol - Ist Place FC, Bullet Tree Scorpi- ons, Cotton Tree, Ar- Continued on Page 13 (Written by Raynord Garbutt) Twenty teams com- peted in the first ever Western Regional Cup that was under the or- ganization of Mr. Aaron Swift and his committee. This tournament that ran for a little under six months was the long- est tournament played in the Cayo District ever. Aaron Swift, the organ- izer, said that the reason why the tournament was that long was to insure that the athletes always Western Dairies - Third Place- Trophy and $300, plus gift certificates Thursday, December 15, 2011 Capital Weekly Page 13 Bringing in Christmas with a Bang: Western Regional Championship Continued from Page 12 set for those teams, and the best two of the four that made it to the Finals were Cotton Tree and Penarol. Western Dair- ies and Los Tambos had to settle for third and fourth place, respectively. Cotton Tree and Penarol took to the pitch last Sunday, December 11, 2011 to do battle; and to the fans delight, it was an awesome game. Pen- Cotton Tree (Second Place), Trophy and $500 Cash arol came in with their national team sensa- the Cotton Tree defense tion Danny Jimenez and got a break when Miguel Cotton Tree with their Aguilar received a pass contingent of talented within the eighteen yard players was set to go. box and blasted a right Both teams fought foot bomb that found the very hard in the first six- back of the net to give Pen- teen minutes of the game, arol a one to nothing lead. with Cotton Tree com- Both teams contin- ing up short on numer- ued to press on with Cot- ous opportunities to take ton Tree looking for the the lead in the game. But equalizer, and Penarol the solid defense of Pen- looking to extend on their arol took up the challenge lead. But at the end of for- of Cotton Tree and held ty five minutes, the score them at bay. In the seven- remained at one to noth- teenth minute of the first ing Penarol. As the second half, Penarol, who were half begun, Cotton Tree also putting pressure on went on the attack, look- Hon. Witz presents trophy to Cotton Tree (Second Place) ing for the equalizer. But Penarol was determined not to give up the lead. Penarol, on the oth- er hand, kept the pres- sure on the Cotton Tree defense to add to the lead but Cotton Tree kept on turning them back. And when the final whis- tle blew it was Penarol who emerged as the first ever Western Regional Christmas Cup Cham- pion. After the game, prizes were given out by Organizers: Cruz Gamez, Hermin Tzib, Terry Swift, Aaron Swift, Jose Menjivar and Emir Quiroz Continued on Page 14 Page 14 Capital Weekly Thursday, December 15, 2011 Bringing in Christmas with a Bang: Western Regional Championship Continued from Page 13 and dinner for two, cour- the Hon. Ramon Witz. tesy of the Orange Gallery. First Prize of $1,000, Best coach went to a trophy and a set of jer- Miss Audrey of Blackman seys went to Penarol. Sec- Eddy Bulldogs. She was ond Prize of $500 and a awarded $150 cash and trophy went to Cotton dinner for two, courtesy Tree. And Third Prize of of the Orange Gallery. $300 and a trophy went to Most valuable play- Western Dairies. The Best er went to Rony Martinez Goal Keeper Award went of Western Dairies. He to Jaime Guerra of Pen- received $100 cash and arol who received $100 Continued on Page 15

Best Goalkeeper, Jamie Guerra, Penarol Astros - United Ville

Hon. Witz presents Akeem Flowers of Astros (Unitedville) Aaron Swift presents Best Coach award to Western Dairies with Trophy for Best Sportmanship Thursday, December 15, 2011 Capital Weekly Page 15 Bringing in Christmas with a Bang: Western Regional Championship

Continued from Page 14 Center, Mr. Adala Be- dran, Mrs. Lilly Lee, Mr. dinner for two courte- Norman Reimer, Mile 58 sy of the orange gallery. Shopping Center in Unit- Also the prize for the best edville who gave the tro- sportsmanship went to phy for the best sports- Akeem Flowers of Astros. manship and The Orange Terry Swift says she Gallery who gave $350 and her husband thank and the gift certificates. the following for their Next year Aaron commitment to the tour- Swift said it will be big- nament: Mr. Jack Barnes, ger and better. And we Roaring River Resort, say, congrats Mr. Swift Hot Mamas, The Plant for a job well done.

Referees who officiated the games: Abner Alvarez, Hon. Witz presents Best Coach (Female) to David Jones, Mauro Manzanero and, Rogelio Bennett Audrey Curling Newsham (Bulldogs)

Hon Ramon Witz presents trophy to Western Dairies, Hon. Ramon Witz presents gift certificate Third Place, Cecilio Lopez- Player Coach and jersey to MVP Ronnie Martinez Page 16 Capital Weekly Thursday, December 15, 2011 Major Works in the Capital

Continued from Page 8

to be addressed through the school wardens to improve BELIZE project, and referring and safety for students in institu- INTEGRATED WASTEWATER AND directing potential workers tions throughout the Capital SANITATION PROJECT FOR THE to capitalize on the employ- City, which has been expe- PLACENCIA PENINSULA ment opportunities created. riencing massive and rapid On the ground, the pro- growth in vehicular traffic, the WATER AND SANITATION ject is being directed by James general movement of people Robinson, Technical Director and goods, and the accompa- REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF at the Belmopan City Council. nying expansion of services. INTEREST CONSULTING SERVICES Robinson told us he Others, still, are being is entirely pleased with the utilized by the Red-Cross, TC No.: ATN/OC-12456-BL quality of work being put out an organization whose role Project No. BL-T1048 by the persons employed. is more vital today than it He said they have even ever was; and Helpage Be- Contract/Bid No. 002PMUBWS been able to identify and ap- lize, an institution that point supervisors and drivers provides essential servic- from the same pool of work- es for our elderly citizens. The Belize Water Services Limited (BWSL) ers; and he noted that most of The SIF-funded pro- has received financing from the Inter- them have shown major pro- ject responsible for the instal- American Development Bank (IADB, gress in acquiring important lation of traffic safety features life-skills, qualifying them is scheduled to be completed the “Bank”) for the detailed design of a Hon. Carlos Perdomo looking lighthearted at Sunday’s Convention for permanent employment before the Christmas Holi- wastewater collection and treatment system with the City Council or days; but the project funded for the Placencia Peninsula. The resources of elsewhere in the job-market. by the City Council itself the Technical Cooperation Agreement will He said he is entirely and with monies secured satisfied that the funds are through the Prime Minister’s be used to procure technical assistance to being well spent and well special initiative, will con- prepare the detailed design of the wastewater accounted for; and the posi- tinue until March of 2012. collection and treatment system based on tive results, he added, are The Prime Minister recommendations of a feasibility study of right there on the ground has, of course, pledged to re- in the form of the improved main tireless in his efforts to design options undertaken by the United and restored infrastructure, continue finding new funds, States Trade and Development Agency, and in the persons of the whether from the govern- provide for customer surveys and a public scores of productive citi- ment’s own resources, or awareness campaign. zens who would have oth- grants and concessionary erwise been unemployed. loans from abroad, to ensure Robinson told us that the vital, infrastructure- BWSL now invites eligible consulting some of the youths employed upgrading, community-en- firms to indicate their interest in providing through the project are even hancing, job-creating pro- the services described above. Interested being utilized as temporary jects and programs continue. consulting firms must provide information Notice to Residents of Belmopan: establishing that they are qualified to perform the services (brochures, description of Your Belmopan City Council will start picking up debris and white garbage as usual on the 15th of the month, and similar assignments, experience in similar will continue doing so until the city is properly conditions, availability of appropriate skills cleaned for the Christmas Holidays. among staff, etc.). Consulting firms may associate with local firms to enhance their qualifications.

Consulting firms will be selected in accordance with the procedures set out in the Inter-American Development Bank: Policies for the Selection and Contracting of Consultants financed by the Inter-American Development Bank (2006 edition) and is open to all eligible bidders as defined in the policies. Thursday, December 15, 2011 Capital Weekly Page 17 Merry Christmas with LOVE Images from Love FM’s Christmas Parade (Belize City, Saturday December 10, 2011)

Photos Courtesy of Patrick Jones Page 18 Capital Weekly Thursday, December 15, 2011 Ministry of Health Monthly Publication

December Issue Ministry of Health improves on Food Borne Disease (FBD) World AIDS Day 2011 surveillance The Ministry of Health The training also helped The Ministry of Health national bicycle race on conducted Laboratory to prepare and increase celebrates the success December 4th, 2011. training this month for surveillance and laboratory of many of its activities In Belmopan, the Western the staff of the Western response of the disease. The that were carried out in Regional Hospital had a Regional Hospital, Ministry also anticipates that conjunction walkathon Central Medical this training will assist the with the around the Laboratory, San Ignacio doctors and nurses to better commemoration Ring Road Laboratory and La care and manage cases at of World AIDS Loma Luz Hospital. health care facilities across on the Day and National The training focused on the country and it will also morning Testing Day on the isolation of Food develop and execute the of December 1st, samples that will better best possible public health December assist with Food Borne interventions and programs 2011. Activities 1st and a Disease surveillance. to decrease the burden of the were carried Health The training covered the disease across Belize. out across the Fair at the Market area that identification of a wide The Minister of Health, Hon. country in collaboration Friday. They reported that scope of microorganisms Pablo Marin along with the with the National AIDS 54 persons visited their that cause Food Borne Epidedimiology Unit of the Commission under the booth and volunteered to Diseases. It looked at Ministry is committed to theme, “Getting to Zero.” get tested on their HIV improving the early improve on the surveillance of Some of the activities status. detection of cases all diseases in Belize. included Health fairs, The Ministry of Health using surveillance and peer counselling sessions, encourages everyone to sampling techniques for Candle Light vigils, Walks continue in the campaign collection amongst those for HIV and AIDS and a to know your HIV status who are affected. Regional award for the Nutrition Unit More Belizeans benefit from dental service across the country The Minister of Health, proper nutrition in both the The Ministry of Health, Hon. Pablo Marin and teachers and students through drills in the rural and urban Dental Health Department the management staff of a fun and motivational way, communities of the Corozal, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health with a goal to achieve positive Belize, Stann Creek and Belize Mission Project behavior The Toledo Districts. The teamed up recently to once changes in target population were again provide free dental the practice of children at the Primary service across the country. nutrition and schools and persons who The dental department is lifestyle. visited the Community especially pleased that This year for Health Centers. this effort assisted thirty the first time The Minister of Health, four Belizeans with false an award for Hon. Pablo Marin teeth. Dr. Raphael Samos Best Organizer congratulated the dental explained that the team of a National team from Dr. Otto was happy to provide the congratulates Ms. Competition was instituted Rodriguez Polyclinic in San dentures that will improve Robyn Daly, Nutritionist as part of Caribbean Food Pedro Town and the team an individual’s speech along with Ms. Melissa and Nutrition Institute prizes. from Central Health Region and digestion but most of Belezaire Tucker, School There are eight Caribbean in Belize City. all improve that person’s Health and Nutrition countries that hold a national The Ministry anticipates self esteem and physical Coordinator on receiving competition and this year future partnerships to help appearance. a regional award as part we are proud to report that extend services to even The team headed by Dr. of the Caribbean Food Belize won the award for more Belizeans next year. Frank Whipps included and Nutrition Institute Best Organizer of a National volunteer Dentists, (CFNI) of Jamaica for Competition. Medical Practitioners, the Secondary Schools The Ministry of Education Dental Hygienists, Dental National Nutrition Quiz takes the lead role in Assistants and Lab competition. implementing the Nutrition Technicians from the The competition is in its Quiz competition activity Ministry of Health United States. They carried twelfth year and its main with the support from the Belmopan out fillings, cleaning, purpose is to educate and Nutritionist and Health fluoride treatments, 822-2325/2363 create awareness about Education and Community sealants and tooth brushing Participation Bureau in the The Ministry of Health wishes all Belizeans a very happy and healthy Christmas Season. Thursday, December 15, 2011 Capital Weekly Page 19

Book Review By Pennylife to dental care of the elderly.Casasola neered Dental Health in Belize. The book should be of Of great interest to me is his dili- interest not only to Dentists and gence in the research and his sys- Historians, but to everybody. tematic documentation on the Besides having some practical School Dental Programs he col- aspects of Dental Health Edu- laborated in. This book makes cation and Dental Disease Pre- an excellent gift. The book has vention, a variety of topics are a number of interesting histori- dealt with, which include Den- cal photographs, is full of hu- tal Tourism, Dental Folklores mor, it is enlightening, and easy in Belize, the Mennonites in to read and should be a required Belize, and Dental Treatment, reading in schools. “My Reflec- Dental Diseases in Belize due to tions of Dentistry in Belize” is Ethnic Differences, Some Eat- a must read for all who desire a ing Habits in Belize which af- beautiful smile and good health. fect Good Dental Health etc. After reading the In the book entitled “My Book, “You will extract the Reflections of Dentistry in Be- truth and not the tooth”. lize” written by Dr. Chris. Ben- nett, the writer discusses how (The Book "My Reflections of dental health evolved into a pub- Dentistry in Belize" can be lic health priority in the country bought at Dr. Bennett's Dental of Belize and he gives credit to Clinic(2230404) Or Brodies and acknowledges all who pio- and Angelus Press for $35.)

y Reflections tude is created towards Dentistry. of Dentistry The period of time spans in Belize” the 1960’s to the new millen- writtenM by Dr. Chris. Bennett nium. In the book Dr. Bennett is a big picture approach to takes one on a journey through Dentistry in his homeland of his formative years in Belize Belize. Dr. Bennett cleverly to England and back to Belize. takes one back in time to the The book proves that South- Central American Country of side Belize young men who Belize, to how life used to be possess ambition, drive and for a young man growing up perseverance can reach their in Belize City, the book relates highest career potential. He con- Dr. Bennett’s drive to fulfill tinuously displays these quali- his career ambitions and to ties throughout the book. As the make life meaningful for him- Krem. TV slogan states “Show self , his nation and the world. weself, see weself, be weself” The book documents “My Reflections on Den- a proactive approach to oral tistry in Belize” by Dr. Chris health, and the struggles and Bennett describes how a stew- achievement of a man of vi- ardship approach of service sion in the area of oral health. before self interest allows Dr. “The book is about the His- Bennett to boldly step out with tory, Attitudes and Culture of faith in God, his country, and Dentistry and Dental Treat- his devotion to serve mankind ment in Belize” it describes universally. The book is about the profound impact and a community approach to Den- transformation which can be tal Health, it discusses the im- achieved in our Belizean peo- portance of nutrition and dental ple, when a more positive atti- hygiene from the earliest stage of Page 20 Capital Weekly Thursday, December 15, 2011